Wednesday, July 17, 2013

MUSIC: Spokane native Cami Bradley advances on America's Got Talent

Local pride is buzzing through Spokane with the news of native singer-songwriter Cami Bradley’s success on America’s Got Talent. She sang and played the piano in a soulful performance of “Summertime,” which aired last night on the popular reality TV show. The panel of judges gave her the green light to advance to the next round of competition.

Bradley’s first audition (and debut to national television) featured her unique version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and earned her first pass through the competition.Heidi Klum said she “absolutely loved it,” and Howie Mandel agreed, “I really think that you are a star.”

Last year when The Inlander interviewed her, Bradley seemed only vaguely interested in musical fame. While her recent success may change her mind about pushing her musical career into the limelight, it’s always been more about the music than the recognition for Bradley.

In April this year she successfully funded the release concert for her album SEAS by crowdsourcing $3,500 on Kickstarter, which she performed at the Bing Crosby Theater in May. She has done many small shows in Spokane, but singing for a national audience is a brand-new experience.

The 25-year-old singer-songwriter is also a photographer who specializes in weddings and portraits. While she admits music is still her passion, the camera provides her another mode of expression and connection to others. When she’s not singing or snapping pics, she’s also the music director at Life Center Church in Spokane.

This girl has obviously got a few backup plans in case the reality TV route doesn’t boost her to musical stardom, but Spokane will be rooting on its jazzy hometown chanteuse.